Authorities are investigating an alleged sewing needle found in strawberries purchased from Woolworths’ Bega store.
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A Woolworths spokesperson said the company takes “food safety incredibly seriously”, following a customer filing a report of the incident with the company.
“We have passed the customer report on to the authorities leading the response to this matter and will consult with them on next steps,” a Woolworths spokesperson said on Tuesday.
“We have been working hand in hand with the police and health authorities as they lead the response to this matter.
“We will stay in close contact with, and continue to be steered by, the authorities on the protection of our customers.”
Strawberry contamination has now spread from a Queensland supplier to all six states.
NSW Police said on Tuesday they are continuing their investigation into the contamination, and those found tampering with products can face up to 10 years in prison.
A police spokesperson said they are investigating over 20 incidents between Tweed Heads and Albury, and looking into isolated reports of banana and apple contamination in Sydney.
On Tuesday, federal Agriculture Minister David Littleproud told Fairfax Media state agencies “need to throw the book” at whoever is responsible, and Queensland authorities have offered a $100,000 reward.
Woolworths has introduced additional safety measures, and said customers should continue “following the advice of the health authorities and cut up all strawberries before eating them”.
Woolworths confirmed they have withdrawn Berry Licious, Berry Obsession, Donnybrook, Oasis and Love Berry branded strawberries from shelves, and have asked customers to return these products to their local store for a full refund.
The company does not stock Delightful branded strawberries – also said to be potentially affected – a Woolworths spokesperson said.
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